Frequently Asked Questions | Mental Health America

You are here

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I go to find therapy?

Different kinds of therapy are more effective based on the nature of the mental health condition and/or symptoms and the person who has them (for example, children will benefit from a therapist who specializes in children’s mental health). However, there are several different types of treatment and therapy that can help.

Learn more about finding therapy

Where can I learn about types of mental health treatment?

Mental health conditions are often treated with medication, therapy or a combination of the two.  However, there are many different types of treatment available, including Complementary & Alternative Treatments, self-help plans, and peer support. Treatments are very personal and should be discussed by the person with the mental health conditions and his or her team.

Learn more about types of mental health treatment

What are the different types of mental health professionals?

There are many types of mental health professionals. Finding the right one for you may require some research.

Learn more about Mental Health Professionals

Where can I go to find a support group?

Many people find peer support a helpful tool that can aid in their recovery. There are a variety of organizations that offer support groups for consumers, their family members and friends. Some support groups are peer-led, while others may be led by a mental health professional.

Learn more about finding support groups

Where can I go to find inpatient care?

If you or someone you know is in crisis, inpatient care can help. Inpatient care can help people stabilize on new medications, adjust to new symptoms, or get the help they need.

Learn more about finding inpatient care

Where can I go to find other local services?

There are likely plenty of resources that can be used to help you find mental health treatment in your community.  These resources can help you find the right therapist, and enable you to better understand viable treatment options and the treatment process. 

Learn more about other local services

Where can I learn more information about clinical trials?

Sometimes, consumers of mental health services may consider participating in a research study when they have not experienced improvement despite having tried a variety of medications and treatments. Research studies (also known as clinical trials) may involve the use of new medications or new treatment approaches whose safety and effectiveness is being tested. While we support innovation in the field, consumers should be cautioned that there are risks associated with clinical trials – make sure you’re aware of them before you enroll.

Learn more about clinical trials

Where can I learn more information about creating a Psychiatric Advance Directive?

Similar to a medical advance directive or a health care power of attorney, a psychiatric advance directive is a legal document completed in a time of wellness that provides instructions regarding treatment or services one wishes to have or not have during a mental health crisis, and may help influence his or her care.

Learn more about My Plan My Life

500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820
 Alexandria, VA 22314

Phone (703) 684.7722

Toll Free (800) 969.6642

Fax (703) 684.5968


Web Sponsor

Text Resize

-A +A

The links on this page may contain document data that requires additional software to open: